Electromagnetic Wave Prob. (Is this a typo/error?)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a potential error in the solution to an electromagnetic wave problem presented in a textbook. Participants are examining the validity of the solution and questioning whether it contains a mathematical mistake.

Discussion Character

  • Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the accuracy of the textbook's solution, specifically regarding a modulus notation. There is a focus on identifying the source of the error and discussing the reliability of textbook solutions.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing dialogue about the correctness of the solution, with some participants expressing disbelief at the possibility of an error in a published work. The discussion includes speculation about the authorship of the solutions provided in the textbook.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that textbooks often contain typos, suggesting a broader context of skepticism regarding published solutions. There is an implication that the authorship of solutions may not solely rest with the main author, which could affect the perceived reliability of the material.

WolfOfTheSteps
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Electromagnetic Wave Prob. (Is this a typo/error??)

http://img519.imageshack.us/img519/4536/errorko2.th.jpg

This is the book's solution to an E&M problem. I typed in the part that is enclosed by a red box.

Am I not correct, and the "official" solution is wrong?!?

It's basically a math error, but I can't believe they made it.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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Yes, the modulus is clearly 'a'. Who is 'they'?
 
Dick said:
Yes, the modulus is clearly 'a'. Who is 'they'?

The book's author! :eek: (I should have said "he")
 
Last edited:
Wolf of the Ste said:
The book's author! :eek: (I should have said "he")

It's not necessarily the books author that writes the solutions-- it was probably one of his grad students! Anyway, books have loads of typos in; it's nothing new!
 

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